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Radiant vs Emerald Cut Diamond - Which is better for you?

Wed, Sep 11, 2024

There are a variety of diamond cuts available. When it's your first time purchasing jewelry the array of choices can feel confusing not to mention some of the terminologies may not make sense to you. Having the information at your disposal can allow you to make informed choices and leave satisfied with the decision you’ve made.


In this article, we are going to tackle two distinct diamond cuts, the emerald cut and the radiant cut. We will look at the similarities, differences and the properties of both. By the end of it, you’ll be able to distinguish radiant vs emerald cut and which is the better option for you.


Diamond Cuts 

Other than the radiant and emerald cuts, there are various other types of diamond cuts to consider when purchasing diamond rings or diamond earrings. These include marquise, round brilliant shapes, oval, and princess cuts. According to Jeweler Magazine, one of the leading jewelry magazines in Australia and New Zealand, creativity and innovation have resulted in the introduction of more modern cuts, widening the pool of choices. This makes it even more necessary to have an understanding of the different cuts, as well as factors like diamond clarity.

Radiant vs Emerald Cut

Radiant vs Emerald Cut 

The praises for radiant and emerald cuts are known far and wide. Indeed, diamonds never go out of style. This cannot be truer with these types considering the amount of high-profile individuals who gracefully rock them. 


The likes of Beyonce, Amal Clooney, Anne Hathaway, Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lawrence have all dazzled the streets with these pieces. This further solidifies the glamorous and mesmerizing nature of these cuts.  


While radiant and emerald cuts have their distinguishing factors, they share several similarities. In the same article by Jeweler Magazine, both of these diamond cuts were classified as traditional diamond shapes. 


Other than that, they are both known for their rectangular-looking shape. This shape has also been likened to an octagon. It’s possible to say that when placed next to the round cuts and oval cuts radiant cuts and emerald cuts can almost seem familial.


Distinguishing Radiant Cut vs Emerald Cut 

While they have some similar characteristics it’s their individual differences that draw people to them. The radiant cut has 70 facets that reflect light. The dazzling end result attracts individuals who like their tiny bling all sparkly and shiny. Before you say all diamonds shine, the comparison with an emerald cut is that it has 57 light-reflecting facets. 


Another distinguishing factor is the brilliance that both these types of diamonds possess. Diamonds can be classified as either brilliant cuts or step-cuts. Brilliant cuts are often round, pear-shaped, oval and square. On the other hand, step-cuts are often rectangular in shape. 


Despite their rectangular shape, radiant diamonds are considered brilliant cuts. According to The Diamond Reserve, the radiant cut diamond is the first rectangular cut to have a complete brilliant facet pattern. In contrast, the Emerald cut diamond is classified as a step-cut. 


Brilliant cuts often have more facets compared to step-cuts meaning that the light that these gems reflect is more compared to the latter. As a result brilliant cuts (e.g. radiants) have greater sparkle and exude maximum brilliance compared to step cuts (e.g. emeralds).

 

The other difference that we have already established is that personalities that steer towards the emerald cut are looking for an elegant piece with a vintage feel to it. On the other hand, radiant cuts attract individuals who want to stand out with a rock shining from a distance. 


Which Cut is better for you?

Radiant vs Emerald Cut

When it comes down to deciding on the radiant cut versus the emerald cut it all comes down to the individual. At the end of the day, they get to go home with it and hopefully spend the rest of their life with it. An individual’s preference and style take precedence. Fortunately, when consulting with a knowledgeable jeweler you get to go home with the perfect cut for you.

 

FAQ about Radiant and Emerald Cuts:

Q. What is the difference between emerald cut vs radiant cut moissanite?

Emerald cut moissanite has a sleek, elegant look with step-cut facets that emphasize clarity, while radiant cut moissanite offers more sparkle due to its brilliant-cut facets. Both cuts have a rectangular shape, but the radiant cut shines brighter.

 

Q. How does a radiant cut diamond ring compare to emerald?

A radiant cut diamond ring provides more sparkle with its 70 facets, making it perfect for those who love a brilliant shine. In contrast, emerald cut diamond rings emphasize clarity and a sophisticated, vintage look with fewer facets.

 

Q. Which is better for engagement rings: radiant cut vs emerald cut?

Radiant cut engagement rings offer more brilliance and sparkle, while emerald cut engagement rings are known for their understated elegance and focus on clarity. The choice depends on personal style preferences.

 

Q. What are the differences between elongated radiant cut vs emerald cut?

The elongated radiant cut has a rectangular shape with brilliant facets for maximum sparkle, while the elongated emerald cut focuses on step-cut facets that create a sleek, sophisticated appearance with a focus on clarity.

September 14, 2024 — Faith Mwangi

MEET FAITH MWANGI

Creativity is at the core of who Faith is as a person and as a professional. Her inspiration is drawn from various mediums from books to audio-visual media. Over the years she has solidified her reputation in the writing arena having worked in multiple spaces where exceptional writing was paramount. Roles she has taken up include book reviewer, freelance content writer and public relations officer. When she’s not busy writing she doubles up as a wannabe musical artist.